Rooftop solar can be a smart investment—but not when it starts with a knock at the door. Door-to-door “green energy” pitches often rely on urgency, identity confusion (“we’re with your utility”), and too-good-to-be-true math. In Iowa, utilities, police, and consumer agencies have all flagged rising complaints tied to these tactics. The pattern is familiar: high-pressure reps, misstatements about “free” systems or government programs, and contracts that lock homeowners into costly financing before anyone has checked the roof, shade, or electric usage. (Iowa Capital Dispatch)
First, know your utility’s position. Alliant Energy is blunt: “Solar installers operate independently from Alliant Energy. We do not endorse any firm.” The utility lists red flags that map exactly to door-to-door pitches, including claims of “free or no-cost panels,” exaggerated tax credits, and pretending to be affiliated with the utility. It also states: “Alliant Energy does not partner with or endorse solar installation companies,” and reminds customers they will still receive a monthly bill if they’re connected to the grid. (Alliant Energy)
On impersonation, Alliant adds clear guardrails: “Scammers pretending to be Alliant Energy are getting more aggressive,” and “Our representatives will never ask for money when they visit a residence.” If someone at your door claims utility ties, call 1-800-ALLIANT to verify—don’t use numbers provided by the salesperson. (Alliant Energy)
The Better Business Bureau warns that the “free solar panels” pitch is a classic come-on. In its scam alert, BBB writes: “If you’ve received an offer for ‘free solar panels,’ it could be a scam,” urging homeowners to avoid high-pressure tactics, seek multiple bids, and research companies before signing anything. BBB’s bottom line: do your homework, and don’t be rushed into a long-term loan or lease by a stranger on your stoop. (BBB)
Iowa authorities have seen the fallout. The Iowa Attorney General’s Office reported a surge of solar complaints and opened investigations into multiple companies after consumers paid thousands and were left with unfinished or non-functioning systems. As one official put it, “people have paid a lot of money, and they still do not have solar power to their home.” That spike in complaints coincided with misleading ads and door-to-door sales. (Iowa Capital Dispatch)
Local law enforcement echoes the caution. Marion Police warned residents in May 2024 about individuals “going door-to-door trying to sell residential solar power units,” some claiming Alliant affiliation; police confirmed with Alliant that no such door-to-door program exists. Many cities also require a solicitor’s permit—lack of one is a red flag. (https://www.kcrg.com)
Protect yourself with a simple playbook: (1) Don’t sign anything at the door. In Iowa, most door-to-door sales over $25 carry a three-day right to cancel; use it if you have second thoughts. (2) Gather at least three written bids from established, local installers who will evaluate your usage and roof conditions. (3) Verify incentives—federal tax credits generally go to the system owner; if you lease, you usually don’t get them. (4) Confirm interconnection steps with your utility and keep copies of every document. (5) If someone claims utility or government affiliation, stop and verify independently. Then report suspicious activity to your utility, local police, the Iowa Attorney General, and BBB Scam Tracker. (Iowa Legal Aid)
Real solar decisions are made at a kitchen table after research—not on a doorstep under a ticking clock. If a salesperson insists otherwise, you’re not missing a deal; you’re dodging a problem.